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How to Manage PestsIdentification: Weed Photo Gallery
GroundcherriesScientific name: Physalis spp. (Nightshade Family: Solanaceae)Click on image to enlarge 
Groundcherry species are bushy summer annual or perennial broadleaf plants. Flower and fruit color and seed shape vary with species. In fact, species identification is challenging and the taxonomy of the species has yet to be resolved. A few species have been cultivated for their edible berries. However, there are reports that unripe fruit and leaves of some species may be toxic when ingested. The toxicity of any Physalis species, however, has not been confirmed experimentally. Groundcherry inhabits disturbed open and unmanaged places, roadsides, crop fields, orchards, and vineyards. Tomatillo, P. philadelphica, lanceleaved , P. lanceifolia, and wright groundcherry, P. acutifolia, plants are shown here. SeedlingCotyledons (seed leaves) are yellow green to gray green. First leaves are oval to triangular, with smooth or slightly wavy edges, and a strong odor when crushed. Mature plantMature plants have erect, hairy stems with many branches. Leaves are oval, triangular, or lance shaped, with toothed, smooth, or wavy edges, depending on the species and growing conditions. FlowerNarrow bell-shaped flowers have five lobes and yellow, whitish with yellow, green, or purple centers. FruitA distinctive papery husk, often with green or purple veins, surrounds a green, yellowish, or purple fruit, the size of a cherry. SeedsSeeds are small and round or kidney shaped. ReproductionReproduce by seed. Related species/Similar looking plantsMore information
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